Legionella Compliance: Best Practices for Prevention and Control
Latest Article from Mark Drinkhill, Managing Director, Total Environmental Compliance Ltd

"The landscape of water safety has transformed dramatically since I first entered this field. While the fundamental principles of Legionella control remain unchanged –temperature control, regular monitoring, and systematic risk assessment – the tools and methodologies we use have evolved significantly."
After 21 years in the water hygiene industry, one thing has become crystal clear: when it comes to Legionella compliance, there can be no compromise. The stakes are simply too high – because we’re talking about protecting people’s lives, safeguarding businesses, and maintaining public health standards.
In recent years, I’ve observed a significant shift in how organisations approach water safety management. Gone are the days of tick-box compliance exercises. Today’s leading businesses understand that effective Legionella control requires a comprehensive, proactive strategy backed by technological innovation and expert knowledge.
The Evolution of Water Safety Management
The landscape of water safety has transformed dramatically since I first entered this field. While the fundamental principles of Legionella control remain unchanged –temperature control, regular monitoring, and systematic risk assessment – the tools and methodologies we use have evolved significantly.
One of the most impactful developments I’ve witnessed is the move toward real-time monitoring systems. Traditional manual temperature checks, while still valuable, are increasingly being complemented by remote monitoring technology that provides 24/7 oversight of water systems. This shift not only enhances compliance but also offers unprecedented insights into system performance and potential risks.
In 2022, TEC rolled out the first Remote Temperature Monitoring service across 100 sites, for a nationwide contract. In 2023, we won the ‘PFM Partners in Sustainability – Public Sector Award’ for the service provided on that contract, we were later shortlisted as finalists at the ASCP UK Safety & Compliance 2024 Awards, in the ‘Net Zero Initiative of the Year’ category.
To have won that award reflects the push for Net Zero and the widely recognised need to reduce the impact of facilities on the environment by lowering carbon emissions, maximising resources, streamlining energy usage and minimising waste in all areas, among other things.
The future of Legionella compliance is increasingly digital. From my perspective, the integration of smart monitoring systems, cloud-based reporting platforms, and mobile applications has transformed how we manage water safety. These technologies not only improve accuracy and efficiency but also provide valuable data insights that help predict and prevent potential issues before they arise.
However, I firmly believe that technology should complement, not replace, human expertise. The most effective compliance programs combine cutting-edge technology with experienced professionals who can interpret data and make informed decisions.
Effective Compliance
Through my experience working with diverse sectors – from healthcare and education to social housing and manufacturing – I believe there are three critical elements that form the foundation of successful Legionella compliance:
Risk Assessment Excellence: The cornerstone of any effective water safety programme is a thorough, professional risk assessment. It’s not just about identifying obvious risks; it’s about understanding the unique characteristics of each water system and how they interact with the building’s usage patterns. Seemingly minor details, when overlooked, created significant vulnerabilities.
Systematic Monitoring and Maintenance Consistency: is key in Legionella control. The most successful organisations implement robust monitoring schedules and maintain detailed records of all activities. In my experience, the integration of digital management systems has revolutionised this aspect, providing real-time data access and automated alert systems that enable swift responses to potential issues.
Staff Training and Awareness: Perhaps the most underappreciated aspect of Legionella compliance is the human factor. Technical solutions are essential, but they must be supported by well-trained staff who understand their roles in maintaining water safety. I’ve always advocated for comprehensive training programs that go beyond basic awareness to foster a genuine culture of water safety.
Building a Sustainable Compliance Strategy
Looking ahead, I see sustainability becoming increasingly central to water safety management. From our experience organisations are actively seeking solutions that not only ensure compliance but also minimise environmental impact. This includes reducing water wastage, optimising energy usage in heating systems, and implementing paperless monitoring systems.
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of adaptable water safety strategies. Buildings with varying occupancy levels require flexible approaches to maintenance and monitoring – a challenge that demands both technical innovation and practical expertise.
The Path Forward
As we continue to evolve in this field, I believe the key to successful Legionella compliance lies in embracing a holistic approach that combines:
• Proactive risk management
• Technological innovation
• Sustainable practices
• Continuous professional development
• Strong partnerships between service providers and clients
The organisations that thrive in maintaining water safety are those that view compliance not as a burden, but as an integral part of their operational excellence. In my experience, this mindset shift leads to better outcomes for everyone – from facility managers to end users.
Legionella compliance isn’t just about meeting regulatory requirements; it’s about protecting people’s health and wellbeing and as industry leaders, we have a responsibility to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in water safety management, always striving for higher standards and better solutions.